Message From the CEO
Happy Monday – every time I find myself shoveling the driveway at 6am I ponder relocating my business to Bermuda.
Here are a few quick updates to get you caught up on this MLK / Inauguration / National Championship Triple Holiday.
-Kevin
Navigating January’s Frosty Financial Front: A Mid-Month Market Update
The economy and stock market feel like they’re mirroring the weather—one moment calm, the next full of surprises. The S&P 500 is kicking off the year with a flicker of hope as tech stocks showed strength, but then inflation reminded everyone not to get too complacent. Volatility crept back in, thanks to lingering uncertainty over the Federal Reserve’s next moves. Inflation is down overall but not out, and that keeps everyone—from Wall Street to Main Street—on edge.
Fluctuations have become the norm as investors juggle optimism over cooling inflation with fears of potential pauses in rate cuts (and eventually, hikes). Retail sales came in weaker than expected during the holiday season, suggesting that consumers are beginning to feel the weight of last year’s rising costs. The real only sparkle of this month is tech stocks have offered a glimmer of hope, leading gains in the S&P 500 despite the broader market’s hesitation.
The top geopolitical story over the next few weeks is going to be the new Trump administration. Despite an expected flurry of executive orders, none are likely to have an immediate impact on the economy (with the possible exception of some energy / oil moves related to drilling). The more substantive changes later in the form of tax legislation. So don’t re-position your entire portfolio one way or another just yet.
Relevant Recent Articles
Stock-market rally depends on answer to this ‘real question’ about bond yields
Bond yields keep moving in the opposite direction than you would expect. Read more
Navigating Stock Sectors
Understanding the different sectors can help you position yourself for the future, regardless of what you think is going to happen. Read more
TikTok ban deadline looms: What it means for creators & businesses
Snip-snap, snip-snap. Tik Tok is banned then unbanned, now possible re-banned? What will happen if it finally goes dark? Read More
